Name: Crispy Korean Potato Dish with a Flavorful Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 kg waxy potatoes (such as fingerlings); 1 tsp fine salt (for boiling); 2 tbsp plant-based butter or vegetable oil; 1 tsp powdered garlic; 1 tbsp Korean chili powder (gochugaru) (adjust to taste); 1 medium shallots (finely chopped); 2 tbsp lime juice (for soaking shallots); 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (or traditional mayo); 2 tbsp Korean chili paste (gochujang) (substitute: sriracha and miso); 1 tbsp plant-based fish sauce substitute (mix tamari and seaweed); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 2 tbsp fresh chives (chopped); 1 tbsp toasted black sesame seeds (optional)

What a joyful surprise it was to uncover this deliciously crispy Korean potato dish! The first bite showcases a delightful crunch that gives way to an airy, fluffy interior, perfectly combined with the rich umami of gochujang and creamy vegan mayo. This Crispy Korean Gochujang Potato Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a bold, flavorful addition to any gathering—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a vibrant potluck. Not only is it a fun twist on classic potato salads, but it’s also vegan, gluten-free, and can be easily tailored to suit diverse diets. Aren’t you curious to try it out? Let’s get started on whipping up this unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why Will You Love This Potato Dish?

Crispy Texture: The outside of the potatoes turns irresistibly crunchy while the inside remains soft and fluffy, creating a satisfying bite that’s unlike any other potato salad.

Bold Flavors: Infused with spicy gochujang and zesty lime juice, every forkful bursts with umami notes and a hint of tang that elevates your usual side dish.

Versatile Base: Feel free to switch up ingredients! Whether you swap the vegan mayo for traditional or add herbs like cilantro or even kimchi, this dish is endlessly customizable.

Quick Prep Time: In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal quick fix for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Diet-Friendly: This recipe fits beautifully into vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free lifestyles, so everyone at your table can enjoy it. Pair it with grilled tofu or vibrant vegetables from my Korean Bbq Steak for a wholesome meal!

Crispy Korean Potato Dish Ingredients

• Get ready to dive into this flavorful delight that will impress everyone!

For the Potatoes

Waxy potatoes – Perfect for achieving that creamy interior; try fingerlings for variety.
Fine salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the potatoes.
Plant-based butter or vegetable oil – Adds richness; use oil for a lighter option.
Powdered garlic – Infuses a savory depth that complements the potatoes beautifully.

For the Seasoning

Korean chili powder (gochugaru) – Introduces a mild heat; adjust based on your spice level.
Shallots – Adds a sharp, aromatic element; soaking in lime juice brings out their sweetness.
Lime juice – Brightens the dish and elevates the flavors with its acidity.

For the Sauce

Vegan mayonnaise – Provides creaminess; swap with traditional mayo if desired.
Korean chili paste (gochujang) – Delivers the signature sweet and spicy kick; sriracha and miso work as substitutes.
Plant-based fish sauce substitute – Enhances umami; mix tamari and seaweed for a homemade version.

For Garnish

Fresh cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness to the final dish.
Fresh chives – Offers a mild onion flavor that brightens the presentation.
Toasted black sesame seeds – Optional but adds visual appeal and a delightful nutty flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Korean Potato Dish

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (about 400°F) or your air fryer to 180°C (around 350°F). This is essential to ensure that your Crispy Korean Potato Dish comes out perfectly golden and crunchy. While you wait, prepare your workspace and gather all the ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Chop your waxy potatoes into even-sized pieces and place them into a pot of salted boiling water. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. Once they reach the desired tenderness, carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry for a minute or two.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a spacious mixing bowl, toss the drained potatoes with melted plant-based butter, garlic powder, gochugaru, and fine salt. Gently mix to ensure every potato piece is coated with the flavorful seasoning. This step is crucial as it infuses the Crispy Korean Potato Dish with a savory depth before the cooking process begins.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes
Using the flat base of a jar or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato piece. The goal is to flatten them slightly while keeping them intact. This technique will create more surface area for crispiness, enhancing the overall texture of your dish.

Step 5: Roast the Potatoes
Spread the smashed potatoes evenly on a lined baking tray or in the air fryer basket. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until the edges are beautifully golden brown and crispy. If using an air fryer, cooking time remains the same; just check for a lovely crunch before removing.

Step 6: Prepare the Shallots
While the potatoes are roasting, finely chop your shallots. Soak them in lime juice for about 5 minutes to mellow their sharpness and add a bright flavor note. This quick pickling will enhance the taste of your sauce and provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy potatoes.

Step 7: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the soaked shallots with vegan mayonnaise, gochujang, and your plant-based fish sauce substitute. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting flavors to your liking. This decadent sauce will elevate your Crispy Korean Potato Dish with a balance of spice and creaminess.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, plate them up and drizzle about half of the rich sauce over the top. Serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping. For a pop of color and extra freshness, garnish your dish with chopped chives and a sprinkling of toasted black sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy this delightful fusion of flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Korean Potato Dish

Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Korean Potato Dish in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to maintain the potatoes’ crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roasted potatoes without the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To bring back their crispness, reheat the potatoes in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave to prevent sogginess.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge, separately from the potatoes, for a quick assembly when serving.

Expert Tips for Crispy Korean Potato Dish

Potato Selection: Choose waxy potatoes for the best texture. Avoid starchy types like russets, as they may not hold up as well.
Spice Adjustment: Start with a smaller amount of gochujang if you’re unsure about spice levels. You can always add more for a kick!
Pre-Crisp Tip: For crunch that lasts, keep the sauce separate from the potatoes until serving, preventing sogginess in your Crispy Korean Potato Dish.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they can last in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crispness.
Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare the sauce up to two days in advance, ensuring quick assembly when you’re ready to whip up this delicious dish.

What to Serve with Crispy Korean Gochujang Potato Salad

Elevate your meal experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance the vibrant flavors of this crispy potato dish.

Grilled Tofu: Marinated grilled tofu adds a smoky flavor and protein punch, balancing the dish’s crunchiness perfectly.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Rejuvenate your palate with a crisp cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil for a refreshing contrast.
Kimchi: A traditional side that complements the dish’s flavors, providing a spicy kick and a probiotic boost to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lime juice adds a nutritious touch while enhancing the dish’s brightness.
Spicy Edamame: Lightly salted edamame with a sprinkle of chili flakes creates a fun and addictive appetizer or side that pairs splendidly.
Chilled Seaweed Salad: This dish’s unique umami flavors harmonize beautifully with a chilled seaweed salad, offering both texture and freshness.
Sparking Water with Lime: Refreshing and light, a glass of sparkling water with a twist of lime cleanses the palate while keeping the meal vibrant.
Lemon Sorbet: Cleanse your taste buds and end your meal on a sweet note with lemon sorbet, providing a zesty finish that’s both light and delicious.

Crispy Korean Potato Dish Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and customize this recipe to your taste!

Mayo Swap: Use traditional mayo or Kewpie for a non-vegan twist without sacrificing creaminess. It will bring a different depth with subtle sweetness.
Chili Boost: Add Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) for extra heat or even some cayenne pepper if you’re in the mood for a spicy kick. Your taste buds will thank you!
Herb Explosion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or tarragon for a refreshing twist. They layer beautifully over the seasoned potatoes, enhancing the dish’s vibrancy.
Cheesy Indulgence: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or dairy cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy, umami punch.
Veggie Add-In: Consider adding diced it in grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for an added nutritional boost and delightful color. It transforms the dish into a hearty side!
Zingy Enhancer: Replace lime juice with lemon juice for a zestier, more aromatic flavor. This brightens the creamy sauce beautifully!
Saucy Variation: Drizzle in a bit of toasted sesame oil for a richer, nutty flavor that complements the overall dish. It ties together the Asian-inspired elements seamlessly.
Crunch Factor: Incorporate chopped nuts or seeds like walnuts or sunflower seeds for an added texture twist. They provide a delightful crunch along with the crispy potatoes.

Pairing these variations with a protein like my Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken or enjoying alongside a colorful salad really elevates your meal. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Korean Potato Dish components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the seasoning for the potatoes and soak the shallots in lime juice up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Additionally, mix the sauce with all ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain the potatoes’ crunch, keep them separate from the sauce until just before serving. When ready to impress your guests or enjoy a quick meal, simply roast the potatoes as directed and drizzle with the prepared sauce for a delicious dish that feels truly homemade with minimal effort!

Crispy Korean Potato Dish Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Crispy Korean Potato Dish, waxy varieties such as fingerlings or new potatoes are your best bet. They hold their shape well and offer a fluffy interior. Avoid starchy potatoes like russets, as they tend to break down during cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Crispy Korean Potato Dish in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crispy texture intact, store the sauce separately and only mix it with the potatoes right before serving.

Can I freeze the roasted potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the roasted potatoes for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before transferring them to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

What should I do if my potatoes are soggy after cooking?
If your potatoes end up soggy, don’t worry! The best way to bring back their crunch is to reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes. You might also want to elevate them on a wire rack while reheating to allow air circulation around them.

Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Very! This Crispy Korean Potato Dish is fully vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients like vegan mayo and plant-based butter. If you’re catering to a diverse crowd, it’s a great choice that everyone can enjoy! Just check for any personal allergies when serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge separately from the potatoes. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast or heat the potatoes and mix everything together for a quick and delicious dish!